Once you’ve returned to Caer Dallben with Taran, Eilonwy and Gurgi, perhaps you’ll be ready to embark on the next journey awaiting the three companions (and the rest of the gang) in The Black Cauldron.

The Cauldron Born are back, their numbers increasing every day through the work of Arawn and his menacing Black Cauldron. Prince Gwydian calls for a council to meet and plan to destroy the Cauldron, creating a small band of warriors to embark on the quest. (Again, we have a similar theme to The Lord of the Rings, including familiar characters such as a betrayer and an arrogant prince—though both are not the same person, as you’ll discover—and a man, son of the chief bard, who seems wise beyond his years.)

This quest, however, quickly changes as the Black Cauldron is not where it is supposed to be, and instead of destroying it, the task turns to simply finding it first. It is soon discovered that the Black Cauldron lies with the three witches of the Marshes of Morva, who provide such tongue-in-cheek dark comedy that readers almost feel bad for laughing while the heroic tribe are in possible peril at their hands.

Battles naturally ensue—both of the fists as well as the wits—and there is plenty of action, deception, and redemption to experience. As with the LOTR series, the ultimate destruction of the cauldron involves a sacrifice; only in this case, it is that of a willing participant, as the destruction itself mandates it be done. Taran witnesses even more tragedy than he has seen in the previous book and finds himself growing as a man in the process.

Though we were introduced to the concept in The Book of Three, The Black Cauldron delves deeper into the development of Taran and his choices, sacrifices, and the things he learns along the journey. A hero isn’t always who we think it is, and we learn that being one involves much more than fancy armor or a sharp sword.

Full of treachery, adventure, and Alexander’s trademark humor, The Black Cauldron is an excellent follow-up to The Book of Three. The books in the series are such satisfying dips into fantasy, quick to read and enjoyable from page one. The holidays are a perfect time to buy one—or all five—or check them out from the library and explore the world of Prydain.